Happy 30th Birthday To ME!

So, here it is - I am officially 30, and according to friends, officially "legit"! I have had a wonderful birthday so far. Friday night, we went out with friends for pizza followed by 80's music and dancing downtown. It was wonderful! And then Sunday, I was able to celebrate with my parents, sister Sara, her hubby and my precious niece Olivia. We were also able to celebrate Father's Day (I love you, Daddy) and Sara's birthday. And today I have been greeted with gardenias from my assistant, more birthday cards and tons of messages of Facebook.

I feel loved.

When I think back from the decade spanning 20-29, I marvel at all the changes in my life. I earned bachelor's and master's degrees, got married and moved forth in my career. There were so many changes in my life. I am happy with the person I am today. It's one of the best birthday gifts I could have ever given myself: self-confidence. Not to mention I'm back down to my high school weight! How glad I am to be 30 rather than 20! :)

I am blessed. I am so grateful for my friends and family who have supported, loved and encouraged me. I would not be where I am today without the people in my life.

Special thanks to my mama...after all, she is the one who did all the work 30 years ago!

And below is a vintage throwback to my 2nd birthday:

Dear Two-Year Old Anisa,

Be proud of who you are and where you come from. Life will have its ups and downs, but you just keep moving forward. You will find love and happiness in your life. Thank God for all He gives you. Love deeply. Remember that family comes first. Be happy.

Love,
Thirty-Year Old Anisa

Labels: birthday, family

Two Tickets to Paradise

I'm going to Mexico!!!

That's right, folks, to celebrate my big 3-0, our 6th wedding anniversary and life in general, we are going to Playa Mujeres, Mexico. I.cannot.wait. I haven't been out of the country since I was 7 for my uncle's wedding in India, so this trip is long overdue. I got a grown-up passport and everything.

After searching the internet for MANY hours and talking to friends, we finally decided on our desired destination, a fabulous adults-only all-inclusive. In July, we will pack our bags for the Excellence Playa Mujeres.

I mean, look at it:


We shall swim, read, relax, eat and take a day trip to Chichen Itza to see the Mayan ruins - one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.


But, alas, with all this planning came one dreaded task: bathing suit shopping. I ordered a bunch from Newport News and J Crew, but not one fit right. Boo. And I have lost 12 pounds on Weight Watchers (!), so I want to not only feel fabulous, but look it too.

My latest purchase will be shipped tomorrow. I ordered the suit below in teal. Wish me luck!


Can't wait until Mexico. Or my birthday party Friday night. Or my birthday lunch with my parents Sunday. Or my actual birthday Tuesday. Or going to the lake for July 4th. Lots of fun things coming up...here's to 30!

Labels: birthday

Family

We had a great time last weekend in Huntsville for my cousin Maryam's high school graduation party! It was wonderful to just spend time with family and roadtrip it with Bert...I LOVE time in the car with Bert. One of my fave things. A few photos are below...

Labels: family